Joe Biden reiterates his “unwavering” support for Ukraine and promises new arms shipments
Volodymyr Zelensky and Joe Biden meet in Kiev. PA
Joe Biden arrived in Kiev for a surprise visit four days before the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He traveled there a day before President Vladimir Putin’s big speech to outline Russia’s goals for the second year of the invasion launched on February 24, 2022.
“As the world prepares for the first anniversary of Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, I am in Kyiv today to meet the President [Volodymyr] Zelensky and reaffirm our unwavering and unwavering commitment to Ukraine’s democracy, sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Joe Biden said in a statement. “I will announce a new shipment of essential equipment including artillery ammunition, anti-tank systems and air surveillance radars to protect the people of Ukraine from air strikes,” he added.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had discussed long-range weapons with Joe Biden, while the US President announced he would impose new sanctions on Russia this week.
Joe Biden was expected in Poland earlier in the week and is scheduled to meet his counterpart Andrzej Duda and allies from Eastern Europe on Tuesday’s trip.
Ukrainian authorities also sounded air warning sirens across the country on Monday, but no missile launches or drone strikes were immediately reported.
The President declared that the US would stand by Ukraine “as long as necessary” and announced new sanctions against Russia. The President announces an additional $500 million in aid, details of which will be announced in the coming days. This aid will also include more military gear, including artillery shells, more javelins, and howitzers. This visit is an “extremely important sign of support,” said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.